A History of Steve's Real Food Recalls
Steve's Real Food, a manufacturer specializing in raw frozen pet diets, has been involved in several product recalls. The most significant and recent recalls occurred in 2018, affecting both dog and cat food formulas. Earlier, a similar issue prompted a recall in 2013. These actions were taken in cooperation with regulatory bodies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and followed independent testing by state agriculture departments. The central cause for these recalls was the potential contamination with pathogenic bacteria, which poses a serious health risk to pets and humans handling the product.
The September 2018 Recall: Salmonella and Listeria
The most notable recall happened in September 2018 and involved multiple products. This event was initiated after the Washington Department of Agriculture found Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes in samples. Although the company's internal tests did not confirm the contamination, Steve's Real Food proceeded with the voluntary recall out of an abundance of caution. The specific products involved were distributed nationally.
Here is a list of the specific products and lot information from the September 2018 recall:
- Steve's Real Food Turducken Recipe (dog food): Sold in 5-pound bags with Lot #J155, Best By date 6/4/19, and UPC 6-91730-15304-5.
- Quest Emu Diet (cat food): Sold in 2-pound bags with Lot #B138, Best By date 5/18/19, and UPC 6-91730-17103-2.
- Quest Beef Diet (cat food): Sold in 2-pound bags with Lot #A138, Best By date 5/18/19, and UPC 6-91730-17101-8.
The March 2018 Recall: Salmonella in Turkey Formula
Prior to the multi-product recall in September, Steve's Real Food recalled one lot of its Raw Frozen Dog Food Turkey Canine Recipe in March 2018. This voluntary recall was prompted after the Nebraska Department of Agriculture found a retail sample that tested positive for Salmonella. The affected products were distributed in 5-pound bags across multiple states, including California, Colorado, Connecticut, and others.
The March 2013 Recall: Salmonella in Turducken
An earlier recall in March 2013 also involved Salmonella contamination. This recall affected the 5-pound bags of the company's Turducken Canine Diet. The issue was discovered after routine testing by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. The recalled product had a specific lot number and expiration date, and no illnesses were reported in connection with this event.
The Dangers of Salmonella and Listeria
Raw pet food, if not handled properly, carries an inherent risk of containing harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes. These pathogens can cause serious illness in both pets and humans.
- For Pets: Animals infected with these bacteria may display symptoms including lethargy, diarrhea (which can be bloody), fever, and vomiting. Even asymptomatic pets can shed the bacteria in their feces, potentially contaminating the household environment.
- For Humans: People who handle contaminated products can become infected. Symptoms can range from nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea to more severe conditions, particularly for those with compromised immune systems.
Comparison of Recent Steve's Real Food Recalls
| Recall Date | Contaminant(s) | Products Affected | Reason for Recall | Status | Reported Illnesses |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| September 2018 | Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes | Turducken Dog Recipe, Quest Emu Diet (Cat), Quest Beef Diet (Cat) | Routine testing by the Washington Department of Agriculture | Completed, FDA terminated | None reported |
| March 2018 | Salmonella | Raw Frozen Turkey Canine Recipe (Dog) | Routine testing by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture | Completed, FDA terminated | None reported |
What to do if you have a recalled product
If you have a product from one of these recalls, it is important to take immediate action to protect your family and pets.
- Stop feeding the product: Immediately stop feeding your pet any of the recalled raw food.
- Quarantine the product: Securely place the recalled food in a sealed container or bag to prevent any further contamination.
- Return for a refund: Return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.
- Clean and disinfect: Thoroughly clean and sanitize all surfaces, utensils, and pet bowls that came into contact with the food. It is crucial to wash your hands with soap and hot water after handling.
- Monitor your pet's health: Watch your pet for signs of illness such as lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea. Contact your veterinarian if you observe any of these symptoms.
- Monitor your health: If you or a household member exhibits symptoms of Salmonella or Listeria infection, contact your healthcare provider.
Pet food safety beyond the recall
Recalls like these highlight the importance of diligent food safety practices, especially with raw pet diets. The industry has seen changes, with some manufacturers implementing High Pressure Processing (HPP) to mitigate pathogen risks. Consumers should always be vigilant. The FDA provides resources for reporting pet food safety concerns and information on ongoing recalls, accessible through their official website. Adherence to proper handling procedures and awareness of recall notices are key to maintaining a healthy environment for your pets.
Conclusion
In summary, Steve's Real Food has had to issue multiple recalls over the years for its raw frozen dog and cat foods due to potential contamination with Salmonella and Listeria. The specific products involved were the Turducken, Raw Frozen Turkey, and Quest Emu/Beef diets. While the company stated its commitment to safety and initiated voluntary recalls, these events underscore the critical need for robust safety protocols in the raw pet food industry. For pet owners, understanding and acting on this information is vital for protecting both their animals and their own health. Remaining informed about recalls and practicing strict hygiene are the best defenses against foodborne illnesses from pet products. This history of recalls should serve as a reminder for all pet owners to remain attentive and cautious about the products they feed their companions.
